Page 90 of Josh's Fake Fiancee

Ashley narrowed her eyes at her big brother. She’d seen him angry, and this wasn’t it. A thought popped into her mind. She tested it, and enlightenment poured through her.The dirty rat.“You might have warned Josh not to step over the line with me, but have you considered that none of this was his fault? I seduced him.”

Someone standing behind her and Josh made a scoffing sound. Ashley ignored the interruption from their audience.

“It’s true. I jumped him and seduced him before he had a chance.”

“You’re wearing rings. Both of you.” Matt cocked his head, his eyes narrowing. “You’re married?”

“We are,” Josh confirmed. “I love your sister.”

Matt let out a loud cheer and pumped his fist in the air. “Yes! Yes! My plan worked.”

Ashley clicked her fingers and leaned into Josh. “Huh! I knew something was suspicious as soon as I saw you. You set us up.”

Matt’s grin was broad and toothy. “I’ve always thought you and Josh would work together, but I knew if I suggested it you’d both turn your backs. When I heard you were having trouble, I decided this was the perfect way to get you together. I figured if I warned you away from each other, it’d raise your curiosity and allow nature to take its course.” Matt held out his hand. “Welcome to the family, Josh.”

Slightly bemused, Josh accepted Matt’s handshake.

“Well-played,” Summer said as Ashley did the introductions.

“Nikolai, great to see you again.” Matt clapped him over the back. “I’m heading to the parents’ place. I’ll catch up with you tomorrow. Congratulations to both of you.” He grinned. “I’m an excellent matchmaker if I say so myself. You’ll have a party. I’ll sing.”

Ashley booed and waved him away.

Josh narrowed his eyes at his departing mate. “We’ll have to burst his bubble.”

“Yes,” Ashley said. “Matt might’ve been right, but I hate being manipulated.”

“You want me to post a few pictures on your official social media page? Make it an announcement?” Summer asked.

“Yes, please,” Ashley said. “I trust you not to embarrass me. I’ll contact Geoffrey and the senior members myself, so they’re not blindsided.”

Nikolai and Summer left not long after Matt.

Josh hugged her. “I can’t believe Frog—Matt—was setting us up.”

“I’m glad he did,” Ashley said. “Although I’ll never admit it to him.”

Josh unlocked the front door. “Wait there.” He darted inside to turn off the alarm.

On his return, he lifted her and carried her over the threshold. Ashley laughed but appreciated their adhering to the old ritual. Their relationship had held little in the way of tradition, and she welcomed the return of normalcy.

Nelson and Gerry applauded them and like the discreet men they were, neither commented on Matt’s revelations of a fake engagement.

“I can’t wait to share this adventure with you,” Josh whispered as he set her on her feet.

Ashley gave her new husband a swift kiss. “Me too,” she said, her happiness almost too big for her body to contain. “Let the adventure begin.”